I wanted to learn how to make a simple drawing game using Scratch. I spent time in class experimenting with this new interface with no guidance. I was able to create abstract drawings that responded to certain keys. However, I didn't feel like I really understood what was happening. For homework I wanted guided assistance on how to use the program in order to understand it better and eliminate any frustration I felt. I found videos that helped me construct a rainbow drawing game. I created simple commands that allowed me to change the pen size using the left/right arrow.
I was surprised by how many tutorial videos were made by kids. It's so important to give students the opportunity to teach and share their own knowledge. It helps them recognize how much they know and also creates a collaborative classroom. If I were to use scratch in my classroom, I would be really interested in having students teach each other how to make games. It would be really cool to have students make online tutorials and upload them to a shared class drive.
Scratch also stands as a clear example of the intersection of art and technology. For students who do not feel as comfortable drawing or painting but are still very creative, this feels like a perfect interface for them. The control and possibilities available on Scratch, reminded me of the feeling of playing computer games as a child. In games such as Zoo Tycoon or Sims, I was able to be creative and excercise my design thinking in a way totally unique to what I was taught was proper art or "creative expression" This digital point of access to creation is important to share with all students.
